Greater Galena Marketing Inc. is searching for an energetic, entrepreneurial leader to serve as the President/CEO of the organization. GGMI is the official destination marketing organization for Jo Daviess County, Illinois, a premier Midwest destination, and, as such, is responsible for promoting the county, including its most notable city, Galena, as a year-round travel destination to consumers, groups, media, small meetings and conventions and niche markets, thus creating quality overnight visitors to the destination.

The ideal candidate will be a self-starter with an entrepreneurial spirit. The President/CEO reports to an 11-member board of directors representing interests from retail, restaurants, large and small lodging, attractions, events and at-large members. The President/CEO directs and leads the DMO toward its mission and works directly with the board on policy making and strategy for the organization.

The President/CEO provides leadership for planning, budgeting, implementing DMO programs, tourism promotion and development. The President/CEO is the primary spokesperson and public face for GGMI and serves as the liaison to local governments and other local, state, regional and national groups.

Major Responsibilities

Key Areas:

Communications and public relations.

Administrative management.

Financial management.

Program planning and coordination.

Tourism promotion and oversight.

Governmental affairs.

Knowledge in planning, marketing and execution of special events.

Demonstrated Abilities:

Oversees all administrative, operating and marketing functions of the DMO.

Advises and provides leadership to the chair of the board, the board and other committees as designated by the board.

Oversees the creation of financial reports and annual audit reports in accordance with procedures approved by the board.

Develops and supervises the implementation of an annual operating and marketing plan, to promote the destination to local, state, regional, national and international audiences.

Directs the preparation of the annual budget that supports these activities and presents it to the board for approval.

Attends meetings of the board and other designated committees in an advisory, non-voting capacity.

Establishes and maintains ongoing effective communications with stakeholders, government leaders, business and cultural institution leaders, convention and event planners, media and the local tourism industry.

Represents the DMO at selected local, state, regional and national conventions that serve to foster the betterment of the DMO’s mission.

Develops and maintains effective organizational policies and ensures all DMO activities are implemented within these established policies, guidelines, laws and ethical standards.

4-year degree from an academic institution - marketing, sales or business major preferred. Several years of relevant experience through progressive levels of responsibility might be considered as an alternative to a 4-year degree.

Several years of progressive sales, marketing and management experience, preferably in the tourism industry.

Previous experience with voluntary board governance and management.

Experience and working knowledge of Microsoft Office, QuickBooks and other useful programs.

Ability to work with and maintain highly confidential information.

Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team.

Ability to be an effective collaborator and innovator.

Knowledge of marketing, business theories, practices and procedures.

Knowledge of budget development.

Excellent verbal, written and presentation skills.

Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to provide leadership.

Experience in supervision with proven ability to recruit, train and develop staff.

About Greater Galena Marketing Inc.

Greater Galena Marketing Inc. is the official destination marketing organization for Galena and Jo Daviess County, Illinois.